ANTI VENOM

I would install the LT1 engine and intake with an HEI distributor before I would buy a miniram or any aftermarket manifold. Will it save you money? I don't know, but it's fun to do it yourself as you surely have the necessary skills. If you find a SR or MR cheap, then maybe that is a good decision. Either way, I believe the "HOT CAM" kit is a relatively economical choice. (don't know the price nowadays).

P.S. With the use of the distributor, no harness change is necessary. I have also seen LT1 manifolds milled to fit a large cap HEI. Then you could use your original, or switch over to a small cap and change a few connectors to make it plug in.